Who truly deserves the credit for ESPN's initial vision and
leadership?

Chris Berman: When cable TV was a neophyte, our founder, Bill
Rasmussen, figured out a way to get us up on the satellite - all he
originally wanted was to get us on in the state, but he got us
across the country for the same price. He'd already bought land in
Bristol - Holy Moly, it was kind of the Beverly Hillbillies
discovering oil. Then the people who took us through our
"Wonderbread years" were our president, Chet Simmons - the
visionary - and his right-hand man, Scotty Connal - the nuts and
bolts. They encouraged us young folk to reach for the sky. Their
spirit and entrepreneurship, along with their professional TV
savvy, was a great combination.

What role does sports play in contemporary culture?

Linda Cohn: Sports is such a great escape, especially like
after 9/11 when baseball started up again with the Mets and Mike
Piazza hits a home run and it was just so moving. It's a cliché,
but it gets us away from our problems. Speaking as a fan, we live
for the drama and unpredictability. How many times have you heard
it said, "It doesn't get any better than this." That's the magic.
Sports gives you something to look forward to. And isn't that what
we all want, to be surprised?

Berman: I'm an idealist, growing up in the '60s and '70s.
So, on the good side, sports still plays a role in bringing people
together from different backgrounds. Giving people a common cause
to be with others in their community. I view it as much more good
than bad, with invaluable lessons when you're young - like, win or
lose, be a good sport. Being in a sports setting for kids can
provide some of the best teachings and ideal­istic tools that we
have.